The Dixon Springs Agricultural Center (DSAC) is located in the southern part of the state near Simpson, Illinois. The station operates on approximately 580 acres of university-owned property, and about 4,200 acres under special use permit with the U.S. Forest Service. The Department of Animal Sciences manages approximately 900 beef cows and their offspring that are involved in research in genetics associated with feed efficiency, reproduction, and nutrition. The facilities at DSAC are also used for teaching activities, including training of undergraduate summer interns and graduate students. The University of Illinois Extension also houses a Livestock Extension Educator at DSAC and conducts numerous extension programs each year.

All cattle at DSAC are kept on pasture, and calving occurs in the fall. Pastures are predominantly tall fescue, with some including legumes, and a number of other warm season grasses on limited acreage.